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New law helps Staten Islanders find quality autism providers

Trick or Treat fundraiser.jpg

Susan Hudec looks on as Ethan Solorzano, 5, of the Bronx, enjoys a taste of cotton candy following the Hudec's Lake Club Trick or Treat for Autism Awareness event in October in Clove Lakes Park in Sunnyside. All proceeds will benefit the G.R.A.C.E. Foundation, a not-for-profit organization that provides programs and services for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder.
(Staten Island Advance/Bill Lyons)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A new law aims to help individuals and families secure quality providers to treat their loved ones diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

The bill, signed into law by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Friday, establishes a new state license for providers of applied behavior analysis services to individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

The law requires behavior analysis quality providers to meet stringent
academic and training requirements and ensures state regulation and
continued oversight of these
providers.

"This bill ensures one of New York's most vulnerable populations is better protected," Cuomo said.

Applied behavioral analysis is an intensive, often one-on-one treatment method that is beneficial for individuals with autism. This law establishes a new state license for behavior analysts and a new state certification for behavior analyst assistants with a protected scope of practice.

"Today, we are building upon the landmark insurance reform legislation passed in 2011 to reduce the out-of-pocket expenses paid by the families of those with autism," said Dean Skelos, senate co-leader.

Said Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Morelle, "By creating this new professional licensure, we have taken a major step in ensuring that the thousands of children in New York who have been diagnosed with autism can receive the therapies they deserve."